Strings vs Blocks: Dimensions & Oscillating Volumes

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Strings are theorized to have one dimension due to fundamental properties of reality, while branes may extend into two dimensions. The use of oscillating volumes, like cubes, is limited because extending objects into more dimensions complicates the mathematics and leads to issues with ultraviolet divergences that cannot be resolved perturbatively. Although theories involving higher dimensions exist, consistent quantization remains an unresolved challenge. String theorists often utilize these higher-dimensional objects as classical representations despite the complexities involved. The discussion highlights the intricate relationship between dimensionality, symmetry, and energy minimization in theoretical physics.
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Why do strings only have one dimension (or maybe branes have 2 dimensions)? Why aren't oscillating volumes (like a cube) used?
 
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Symmetry and minimization of energy.

Your question is a good one, and one I think any intelligent person should ask themselves at some point. It's actually somewhat equivalent to saying "why isn't the Sun a cube, or hexahedron?"
 
Pjpic said:
Why do strings only have one dimension (or maybe branes have 2 dimensions)? Why aren't oscillating volumes (like a cube) used?
If strings are replaced with objects extended in more dimensions, then ultraviolate divergences cannot longer be removed (at least not perturbatively). This happens only for extension in 1 dimension.
 
whats about n-branes?
 
I agree it is a good question and the answer lies in mathematics.

There is no reason why theories involving more dimensions cannot be devised (and indeed they have already) but the mathematics involved becomes increasing more complex as you add more dimensions.
 
Dmitry67 said:
whats about n-branes?
It is still not known how to quantize them consistently.
 
Demystifier said:
If strings are replaced with objects extended in more dimensions, then ultraviolate divergences cannot longer be removed (at least not perturbatively). This happens only for extension in 1 dimension.

I don't know what it means, but thanks for the answer. So, string theory says that objects can only have one dimension due to a fundamental property of reality?
 
Demystifier said:
It is still not known how to quantize them consistently.

Hmm, but string theorists use them regularly anyway don't they?
 
Coin said:
Hmm, but string theorists use them regularly anyway don't they?
Yes. They mostly use them as classical objects.
 
  • #10
Demystifier said:
Yes. They mostly use them as classical objects.
Very interesting, thanks.
 

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